Italian Job star Mark Wahlberg has ruled out the possibility of starring in a sequel to Tim Burton's ill-fated sci-fi remake Planet Of The Apes.

"I would do anything that Tim Burton asked me to do," Wahlberg told reporters at a press conference at London's swanky Claridges hotel.

"I said I would do it if Tim did it. Tim went on to say that he would rather jump out of a window. So I'd probably rather follow Tim out of the window."

15/09/2003
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If we could confirm he can drop it if Tim's out, it would be alot easier to figure out. The Fox people and producer keep saying they have MW for PoTA2 no matter who directs it. But he keeps saying he won't do it if Tim's not. And Tim said no way again a few months ago. So its all up in the air unless the quote was out of context - which is always possible.

Looks like Tim is on like Donkey Kong for POTA2. Here's a quote from DarkHorizons.com today...

''Planet of the Apes 2: BBC Wales indicates Tim Burton has been scouting England to shoot the sequel in late 2004 with both Pinewood & Shepperton studios being looked at''

Contractually Mark was already signed to do a sequel when he signed the first contract, from what I understand. This was according to studio reps and I'll see if I can dig up the link (if it still works). I can also inquire with Mark's management if you guys really want to know or not.

Thanks to vevie, I have read this article.
I wonder if this is true???

Keown to star in new Apes film

Arsenal footballer Martin Keown has landed a cameo role in the new Planet of the Apes film, set for release late next year.

The ex-England defender will play evil warrior-gorilla Aldo in a remake of the 1971 classic eReturn to the Planet of the Apesf, which will also feature Hollywood stars such as Mark Wahlberg, Helena Bonham-Carter and Tim Roth.

gMartin was very relaxed during casting and I think he could go a long way playing simian characters,h he said. gThe other advantage is that wefre going to save a **** of a lot of money on make-up.h

Keown is not the first footballer to go into acting. Ex-Utd star Eric Cantona managed a passable French accent in eElizabeth If while ex-Wimbledon and Chelsea hardman Vinny Jones starred in Guy Ritchiefs eLock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrelsf after being spotted by the British director assaulting various other players during his 15-year playing career.
http://www.thespoof.com/news/spoof.cfm?headline=s4i1493